Hewitt (Dracula, Rocky Horror Show, Zhivago) is taking over for Jeremy Kushnier (Next to Normal, Footloose), who is on a temporary leave of absence from the production. Kushnier is expected to return to Superstar prior to its closing performance in La Jolla on Dec. 31.

Kushnier himself was a replacement for the La Jolla run of Superstar, which originated in a sold-out, critically acclaimed run at the Stratford Shakespeare Festival. Tony Award winner Brent Carver (Kiss of the Spider Woman, Parade) originated the role of Pilate for Stratford audiences.

Directed by Tony Award winner Des McAnuff (The Who's Tommy, Jersey Boys), Superstar will arrive on Broadway March 1, 2012, at the Neil Simon Theatre. It officially opens March 22, 2012.

Casting for the Broadway production has not been announced. Much of the original Stratford cast, who currently repeat their work at La Jolla, are expected to appear in the Broadway run.

The La Jolla principal cast includes Bruce Dow as King Herod, Chilina Kennedy as Mary Magdalene, Mike Nadajewski as Peter, Paul Nolan as Jesus and Josh Young as Judas, with Marcus Nance as Caiaphas, Lee Siegel as Simon Zealotes and Aaron Walpole as Annas.

Dodger Properties and the Really Useful Group produce the Broadway production.

Jesus Christ Superstar has music by Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Rice. The sung-through rock work premiered on Broadway in 1971.

La Jolla tickets are available here. For Broadway tickets visit Ticketmaster, or phone (877) 250-2929.